“Furthermore, I am very encouraged to learn that you are bringing thousands of new supporters into the fold. We are expecting millions to join us in the next few months.

“I would have very much welcomed another opportunity to be in Kano but due to a conflict of engagements, I am due on that day in Addis Ababa for an important African Union meeting which was scheduled months ago.

“I hope I shall have the pleasure of welcoming you to the Presidential Villa in the near future. I wish the event turns out to be a resounding success.”

Buhari is yet to publicly declare for the 2019 election but there are clear indications that he would run.

Last week, his campaign office was inaugurated in Ibadan, Oyo state capital.